Wednesday, July 18, 2012

Emigration Canyon to get a cycling facelift thanks to County tax dollars

Cyclists enjoy the views and the proximity to nature
as they ride up the top part of Emigration Canyon.
(Photo: BikeandBrewTour.com)
The Salt Lake Tribune's article about Salt Lake County sales taxes included a small "At a Glance" blurb about where some of the County's new sales taxes will be directed - a cycling upgrade in Emigration Canyon, one of Salt Lake's most important destinations for drivers, professional and amateur bike racers, recreational riders, and runners. The upgrades, made possible thanks in large part to a bike-friendly County Council and Public Works Director Patrick Leary, will improve safety for all users by making the bike lanes in the canyon safer, free of rockfall debris, and a space that is inviting to cyclists.

In a news release, Mayor Peter Corroon said, “Salt Lake County recognizes that Emigration Canyon is the ‘crown jewel’ for all transportation users..."

The County will begin construction on Emigration Canyon road soon and the road will remain at least partially under construction for the rest of the summer. Shoulders will be added to the road in order to reduce the amount of mineral debris that enters the bike lane, which currently forms the edge of the road and is the recipient of much of the falling rocks.

Public Works Director, Patrick Leary, said that the project, which will cost about $250,000, will not require major traffic control measures or serious road closures, but there will be some small delays and redirection of traffic during construction.

The Tribunes adds that "crews will clear debris from roadside ditches and create catch basins to capture 'gravel and soils that slide downhill from unstable uphill areas.'"

Chad Mullins, chairman of the Salt Lake County Bicycle Advisory Committee, praised the project for its success in assisting a broad spectrum of users, from the residents who live in the canyon, to recreational users who appreciate a clean, clear and safe road. "This is a great step toward improving cyclist safety and encouraging recreation in one of Salt Lake County’s most beautiful and utilized canyons," Mullins said.


Please let us know in the comments section of any problems or positives you experience during and after construction so that other users and elected officials can know.



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